“Accused” drunk driver Dartail Hunter hit my cousin Jovanna Whitaker going 70-80 mph in a 45 mph zone on February 17, 2025 on Flat Shoals Road in Atlanta, Ga. City of South Fulton.  She fought for her life for two weeks but tragically passed away on March 3, 2025.

This heart-wrenching incident has forever changed the lives of her six children Mckinzy, Mckeyvius, Venus, Mikeria, Mikayla, and the youngest Milaysia being only 11.  She has countless family and friends who now have to live in the world without her earthly existence  because of someone selfless act. 

On August 29, 2025, the driver was arrested and shockingly, a day later, received a bond. By August 31, 2025, he was released on a mere $40,000 bond, with even some driving privileges allowed. This is not justice. The decision undermines the gravity of taking a life through reckless and dangerous behavior.

In Georgia, families like mine are left broken-hearted and struggling to understand how the laws allow DUI offenders to escape meaningful consequences. When someone chooses to get behind the wheel intoxicated, knowing the fatal dangers involved, they should be charged with manslaugter. After all, driving under the influence and killing another person, whether with intent or not, is an act you can't just say Sorry. As in this case Homicide by vehicle don't hold any weight.  If you want to drink and drive in GA, kill a person you should be charge with manslaughter. 

Georgia’s bond laws must change to ensure that such offenders are held accountable for their actions. Bonds for DUI resulting in homicide should reflect the severity of the crime. We demand an increase to at least $250,000, echoing the seriousness of the offense and the impact it leaves on families and communities.

Families mourning the loss of loved ones due to drunk drivers should not have to witness the easy release of the perpetrators. Real deterrents are needed in our legal system to protect our families and children from the reckless individuals who choose to drink and drive.

Jovanna was  a motivational speaker at many social institutions and she encouraged many people to better themselves to grow in their own paths. She stood for the youth and Gang Reform.  She was very fond of her social life in Atlanta/ South Fulton Georgia. Over 300-350 people was at her service in person and countless other online.

She was loving, kind, charismatic, and brave in many endeavors. When she was faced with the unpredictable changes in her life she would look beyond circumstances and always focus on God for help and direction. She was a very multitalented woman full of life and colors. She could make the impossible possible. Let's not forget she was a true DIVA. Her hair, nails, and make-up

She taught her children to always be foçus towards their goals. She taught her-children the importance of always being themselves no matter what anyone-had to say. She taught her children to always be leaders and not followers. 

Let's honor Jovanna's memory and fight for justice for all victims of DUI-related homicides. Sign this petition to signal that the community demands change now. 

Please join us in advocating for stricter DUI / Homicide by vehicle bond laws in Georgia.